Edmond Life and Leisure - April 22, 2021

April 22, 2021

Vol. 21, No. 49

In This Issue FOUR SEASONS

Edmond vet turns 100

Four Seasons, by Kevin Box, in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the UCO campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper.

Email contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing.

For more information, see page 4.

Sherlock Holmes exhibit coming to area See page 9

FRIDAY, April 23

Scattered Thunderstorms High 64° Low 49°

PHOTOS BY MELINDA INFANTE

Oren Lee Peters in front of a large sign marking his 100th birthday.

There was a drive-by celebration for one of Edmond’s most special citizens.

Oren Lee Peters, a decorated World War II Army veteran, turned 100 years old over the weekend.

Fellow vets, and other well wishers, drove by his house near downtown Edmond, to pay homage to the man.

Helping to organize was the American Legion.

Peters was born in Edmond

in 1921 and in World War II served with the 45th Infantry Division. He participated in several campaigns to free Europe from Axis rule. He served 511 days in combat. Among his military honors were the Silver Star, Bronze Star and Purple

Heart. His service also earned him induction into the Oklahoma Military Hall of Fame.

In his post war life, he has been active in several community clubs and organizations.

He was also thanked for his service by members of the Edmond Police Department, who also played a role in traffic control during the drive by.

A sincere congratulations to Oren Lee Peters.

SATURDAY, April 24 Partly Cloudy High 68° Low 47°

Oren’s younger sister also was on hand for the celebration.

SUNDAY, April 25 Sunny High 76° Low 59°

Edmond Police took time to thank Peters for his war service.

Many fellow vets rode by to honor the World War II veteran.

Page 2 • April 22, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 22, 2021 • Page 3

Dylan Bradway and Dusty Gilpin work finish the new mural.

PHOTO PROVIDED/CITY OF EDMOND

A new large wall mural, welcoming people to Edmond, is now in Downtown Edmond across the street from the tag agency. Work on the mural began last week and was expected to be complete this week.

Big change is coming for those in 405 area code Starting this Saturday, get ready to dial extra numbers to connect your call.

The new 572 area code for central Oklahoma has led to the change.

AT&T Oklahoma Area Manager of External Affairs, Jan Moran, explains what is behind the change.

“National numbering resources for Area code 405 in Oklahoma will exhaust in coming months which means we will run out of telephone numbers,’ she said. “To ensure a continuing supply of telephone numbers,

the OK Public Utility Division approved the addition of the new 572 area code to the geographic region served by the 405 area code. This process is know as an area code overlay.”

Moran said the change in the 405 area, will involve an increase from seven digits to 10, which goes into effect, Saturday, April 24.

“Beginning May 24, 2021, new telephone lines or services may be assigned numbers using the new 572 area code,” Moran said. .

Elyse Cronic, granddaughter of Frank and Saundra Naifeh, was selected by Oklahoma City Rotary Club 29 to be their acting president recently. She presided over the weekly luncheon on Jr. Rotarian Graduation Day for the club. Cronic attends Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School, where she was on the Pier Giorgio Honor Roll (maintained a 4.0 gpa), received the Pre-AP Algebra I, Freshman Theology, Tai Chi Academic Awards, the Chinese Language and Culture Award, and was recognized as an all-American Cheerleading Nominee by the National Cheerleading Association. As a Cheerleader, she was one of the Senior Varsity Captains, a three-time 5A state champion and awarded by her team the Most Trusted, Hardest Worker, and Biggest Sweetheart awards, and finally placed 3rd at Junior/Senior HS Cheerleading Nationals in 2020. She has been a member of and/or officer of Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Student Council, Women in Science, Fine Arts, Diversity clubs, and Spiritual Leadership and development class.

MELINDA INFANTE

Page 4 • April 22, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

From the Publisher

O’Neil suggests sales tax hike In his last month as our Edmond Mayor, Dan O’Neil and his longtime fellow Edmond Neighborhood Alliance member, Lydia Lee, proposed a a half cent sales tax hike for the City of Edmond. They want the city to use the money to purchase land next to Hafer park because of their objection to the luxury multi-unit project the developer wants to put on that land.

The piece of land has long been a Ray Hibbard point of contention with area residents and the duo is proposing that the City of Edmond resolve the issues associated with the land by having taxpayers purchase the land.

After a presentation by Lee at the April 12 city council meeting, and a discussion with the mayor, the city council directed city manager, Larry Stevens, to bring a proposal on how much of an additional sales tax and possible length of the tax was needed to purchase the land. They would then bring that to the next council meeting, April 26 for the council to consider. As with all sales tax increases, the issue would have to be put up for a vote of eligible voters in the city limits of Edmond.

The proposal had included collecting a half cent for a period of five years to pay for the land but also to make park improvements and build another library for the city. However, at the end of the discussion, the council decided on making the possible tax increase about just the one issue of the land purchase. Historically, any tax for capital improvements for Edmond included up to a year of citizens input and study before such a proposal would move forward to a vote. Due to the zoning request by the developer and his desire to move the project forward on the land that he owns, such a vote to purchase the land would have to take place before the normal vetting of capital projects could took place.

The land is northeast of the Spring Creek Shopping Center at 15th and Bryant. The development is proposed to be high-end Mansion Block homes with the idea that many empty nesters or young professionals are in search of luxury housing with good amenities but for a variety of reasons prefer to rent. There is a planned 50 foot tree lined buffer as a border between the development and the park. The project was approved by the Edmond Planning Commission with a 5-0 vote. There are several moving parts to this process, and I will try and explain what could happen if the proposers get their way for the vote.

If the council votes to approve the zoning change requested by the developer, they will pause their project long enough to let the city have their sales tax increase vote before the people. If voters approve of the additional tax on themselves, the developer will sell the land to the city. Currently, the city has no plans in place for what to do with this extra land on the edge of the park. If the vote fails, the developer would then be free to move forward with the project as planned.

The possible fly in the ointment is if a referendum petition is filed to cancel the zoning change made by city council within 60 days after the council approval.

Groups that normally lead the charge on such issues have said they will not do so if a plan is in place to raise our sales tax so that the city could purchase the land. However, filing a referendum petition to change the zoning back is a right under our charter so no promises can be made to guarantee it will not hap-

Edmond business owner dies over the weekend We have some sad news to report. Our longtime friend and Downtown Edmond Business Association (DEBA) member, Bryanne Wallace passed away last Saturday night. Wallace was the owner of Fashion Boutique and longtime board member of DEBA. If you have attended and enjoyed the Edmond Arts Festival, you have Wallace to thank for her thousands of volunteer hours growing the festival to be so large and successful. Our hearts are broken, and our prayers go out to the family. As of press time we did not have funeral arrangement information so watch for it to be posted on our Facebook page.

She was a wonderful lady, and her leadership will be missed all over Edmond. I always felt that I was one of her nephews. I would get a call from “Aunt” Bryanne that would start, “You need to call someone.” I learned that meant she was on the trail of righting a wrong and I was getting ready to be drafted as her partner in solving the issue. It was a role I delighted in.

Our friend and leader here in downtown Edmond will be missed.

Bryanne Wallace

pen.

I was pleased to see the council encourage it to be a one issue vote. The attempt to roll a new library and park improvements into the vote was simply a smoke screen to disguise the real issue which is do we as taxpayers want to raise a tax on ourselves to purchase property where some object to the use by the private landowner. If it all turns out as described, it will be a simple decision for voters to make at the ballot box. Keep in mind the use of this privately owned property is not something egregious. It is luxury multiunit housing, not a pork processing plant next to one of our finest parks. If this project goes forward, it will not destroy any part or take any parcel away from Hafer Park. Families can continue to enjoy it the same as always. Prepare for a good amount of misinformation on this project and process.

While I could never argue with letting citizens vote on any issue, odds are we will oppose the tax increase should it come about. It will not be just a tax on the folks living in the surrounding neighborhoods, it will be on any purchase made here in Edmond by all of us. It will not only be a tax on the elites against any multi-unit housing but a tax increase on the working poor here in Edmond and the elderly. Yes, regardless

of what you might be led to believe, Edmond does have folks that live here who struggle financially. Feel free to ask the folks at the HOPE Center if you do not believe me. Sometimes extra sales tax is needed for projects that benefit all of Edmond or raise our quality of life, but this does not seem to be a good use of it to me.

If homeowners in the area object to the landowners use of the property, my suggestion is for them to vote to tax themselves through a property tax increase to get the funds to purchase the land. They could then donate the land back to the city and stipulate any restricted use for the land they wish. That way, it will not be a burden on the rest of our sales taxpayer base and the bill for the land would be paid for by the folks effected most.

If you have strong feelings about this increase in sales tax, contact your city council member or the mayor.

I know they would like to hear from you. The proposal could change before the city council meeting on April 26 so you may want to tune in or attend the city council meeting to see what happens.

(Ray Hibbard, publisher of Edmond Life & Leisure may be reached by e-mail at ray@edmondpaper.com)

Check out what’s inside!

---- Police arrest report ......................................................................Page 6.

---- First Baptist Church to build new counseling center ....................Page 8.

---- Sherlock Holmes exhibit ..............................................................Page 9.

---- When do you call a riot a riot? ..................................................Page 10.

---- Veterans Memorial at cemetery gets attention ..........................Page 11.

---- George Gust reviews “Unhinged” motion picture ......................Page 14.

---- Crossword puzzle ......................................................................Page 14.

---- Business news ............................................................................Page 17.

---- Church directory ........................................................................Page 19.

This, and much more, in this week’s edition!

See if you can find ‘Four Seasons’ “Four Seasons” in real life is located in front of the Center for Transformative Learning on the University of Central Oklahoma campus, but this week is hidden somewhere in our paper.

Please e-mail contest@edmondpaper.com with the correct location to be entered in the weekly drawing.

Commissioned as a partnership between UCO, the City of Edmond and the Edmond Visual Arts Commission, “Four Seasons” was created by sculptor Kevin Box of New Mexico and was dedicated on the campus on March 24, 2011.

Kevin is a member of the National Sculptor’s Guild. His Box Studio LLC is a strong supporter of the Reduce, Reuse and Recycle concept, using recycled metal as part of the casting process for his sculptures. All of his work is 100 percent recyclable.

For more information on Edmond public art, please visit http://visitedmondok.com/public-art.php.

Publisher Ray Hibbard Jr. ray@edmondpaper.com Partner Christopher T. Hoke Editor Steve Gust news@edmondpaper.com Production Deanne York Advertising Director Alexx Harms alexx@edmondpaper.com Contributing Writers Mallery Nagle, Kacee Van Horn, Rose Drebes, and George Gust.

Photographer Melinda Infante

Cover Design Deanne York Legal Counsel Todd McKinnis Ruebenstein & Pitts, PLLC Copyright © 2021 by Edmond Media Publishing 107 S. Broadway Edmond, OK 73034 405.340.3311 (office) 405.340.3384 (fax) Mailing address: P.O. Box 164 Edmond, OK 73083 All rights reserved.

Material contained herein may not be reproduced in any form without the express written permission from Edmond Media Publishing. edmondlifeandleisure.com facebook.com/edmondlifeandleisure twitter.com/edmondlifeandleisure instagram.com/edmondlifeandleisure

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 22, 2021 • Page 5

PHOTO PROVIDED

DAR Cordelia Steen Chapter members at the Edmond City Council meeting on April 12, included, from left, Chaplain Mary Poulain, Vice Regent Tammy Ross, Meagan Bobo, associate members Magen Runyan and Mae Runyan, Librarian Ellen Lee and Regent Andrea Aven.

Honors the Steens ‘First Family of Edmond’

DAR Cordelia Steen Chapter sees council rename underpass bridge At its April 12 meeting, the Edmond City Council unanimously approved the Cordelia Steen Chapter Daughters of the American Revolution’s proposal to name the 2nd Street underpass: Steen Memorial Bridge.

Concerned that Edmond had no entity named for the city’s first settled family, John, Cordelia, and Charles Steen, the DAR chapter solicited information from the city, and garnered support of the proposal from the Edmond Historical Society and Museum and the Edmond Historic Preservation Trust.

The original Edmond Station, built in 1886-1887, was located exactly where the 2nd Street BSNF underpass now stands. The Cordelia Steen Chapter felt naming the underpass Steen Memorial Bridge a fitting tribute to honor the first family of Edmond.

In late 1886, John Norton Steen, an engineer with the Atchison, Topeka and Santa Fe Railway, was transferred to Mile Marker 103 to build and operate a new coal and watering station. The station was named Edmond in March 1887 and that November, John’s wife Cordelia and son Charley joined him to live at the family’s new home, the station’s pump house. The Steens were the only settlers in Edmond for 17 months before the Land Run of April 22, 1889, which formally established the town.

Cordelia Steen Chapter Regent Andrea Aven thanked the council members for their vote, and stated of the Steen’s contributions to Edmond: “Not only was the Steen family the original settlers of Edmond, they were active participants in the growth of the city, becoming involved in civic organizations, politics, the early schools and their church.” Regent Aven also thanked the Cordelia Steen Chapter members for their work and support to see this project to fruition, as well as the de-

scendants of John and Cordelia Steen who have been kept abreast of the DAR chapter’s historic preservation efforts. Chapter members also attending the City Council meeting were: Vice Regent Tammy Ross, Chaplain Mary Poulain, Librarian Ellen Lee, and Meagan Bobo, and associate members Mae Runyan, and Magen Runyan.

The Steen’s great-granddaughter Virginia Minick Sparks of Arizona, after speaking with her sister, Charlene Minick Zielinski of California, responded to the news of the bridge naming with excitement and thanks, “We are very proud and honored to be a part of the Edmond history. My sister and I and our families want to thank all the wonderful people who are involved in gathering and putting together all of the information and recording it, so it will be preserved for the future generations.” Dr. Steve Zielinksi of California, great-great-grandson of John and Cordelia Steen, shared upon hearing the result of the City Council’s vote, “This is amazing news! I cannot thank you and your DAR chapter enough for the countless hours you’ve committed to the Steen family.”

Regent Aven expressed gratitude to Amy Stephens, Executive Director of the Edmond Historical Society and Museum and Stephanie Carel, Chair of the Edmond Historic Preservation Trust, for their ongoing counsel and support. The Trust plans to place a marker commemorating the Steen family on the pedestrian walkway that runs parallel to 2nd Street and goes under the bridge. Randy Entz, Director of Planning and Zoning, Casey Moore, Director of Public Relations, City Clerk Cinda Covel, Assistant to City Council Todd Hildabrand, and Mayor Dan O’Neil were also thanked by Regent Aven for their input and support of this project.

A ceremony to officially dedicate Steen Memorial Bridge will be announced in the coming weeks.

PHOTO PROVIDED

Looking west at the Second Street BSNFunderpass, now newly named the Steen Memorial Bridge.

Page 6 • April 22, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

(The following arrest reports are provided by the Edmond Police Department. Guilt or innocence is determined in a court of law.

Also, CDS is controlled dangerous substance; APC is Actual Physical Control; DUI is driving under the influence.)

April 5 Charise Anderson, 35 homeless.

Non-assault resisting an officer and trespassing, Johnny Batshoun, 29, Edmond.

Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of drugs or CDS. Kelly Lee Ford, 40 of Wellston.

Felony warrant, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked, failure to wear seatbelt, disregard signal light and false repre-

sentation to an officer.

Paul Anderson Tooahimpah Tate Jr., 40 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

April 6 Darrell Lee Wilson Jr., 25 of Edmond. Possession of a firearm after a felony conviction.

Joseph Michael Lovett, 26 of Edmond. Expired tag over three months, driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and failure to appear.

Mikhal David Nobu Tippin, 32 of Tulsa. Expired tag over three months and driving while license is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

April 7 Derek Wayne Parker, 35 of Ed-

mond. Obtaining property by false pretenses (UPC price tag or sales receipt switch/reproduce) and obstruction of a police officer.

April 8 Rushell Christina Ledford, 29 of Oklahoma City. Failure to appear.

Gina Beth Francis, 53 of Edmond.

Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Nathaniel Duane Taylor 21 of Oklahoma City. Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked.

Kenneth Dale Garrett III, 42 of Oklahoma City. Trespassing after being warned.

Stephanie Marie McCown, 49 homeless. Public intoxication.

Nyree Dawn Johnson, 45 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

April 9 Sha Ron Marquis Kelvin Stead, 25 of Edmond. False representation to an officer and public intoxication.

Braquel Janea Willis, 23 of Moore.

Public intoxication.

Deandre Demone Arnett, 19 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Darvis Dean Arnett, 23 of Edmond. Driving without proper or valid driver’s license.

Demazio Dontrell Biglow, 29 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Alano Ezekiel Eckiwardy, 18 of Edmond. Non-assault resisting officer, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana.

Austin Prince Borges, 22 of Edmond. Domestic abuse assault (strangulation).

Pharaoh Rashana Alex, 19 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

April 10 Julie Lorraine Fikes, 59 of Edmond.

Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Joshua Lee Young, 37 of Edmond.

Public intoxication.

Gonzalo Narez, 32 of Yukon. Operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol content level of .15 or more.

Destiny Marie Aceves, 21 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

Kevin David Brewer, 57 of Edmond. Public intoxication.

Kevin Michael Hess, 36 of Edmond. Operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Binjie Blu Gonzales, 24 of Guthrie.

Public intoxication.

Scott Edward Bowen, 58 of Edmond. (Anything other than alcohol) operate (DUI or APC) a motor vehicle under the influence of anything other than alcohol.

April 11 Luis Alejandro Jimenez, 21 of Edmond. Social host violation.

Matthew Sage Schneider, 26 of Edmond. Expired tag over three months, Driving while privilege is canceled, suspended, denied or revoked and failure to appear.

Melissa Sanders, 28 of Midwest City. Misdemeanor warrant.

Anthony Alexander Barnes, 28 of Edmond. Felony DUI/APC. Xena Ranee Wilcox, 23 of Edmond. Driving with license canceled, suspended or revoked, CDS possession and operate (DUI or APC) vehicle under the influence of alcohol.

Tresia Elaine Tolleson, 42 of Oklahoma City. Public intoxication.

Edward Anthony Runnels, 38 homeless. Trespassing after being warned.

Charise Anderson, 35 homeless.

Trespassing after being warned.

Governor marks attack anniversary Gov. Kevin Stitt Monday joined Oklahomans in remembering the victims, survivors and heroes of the April 19, 1995, attack on the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building in downtown Oklahoma City.

The governor’s remarks at the 26th annual remembrance ceremony held at the Oklahoma City National Memorial & Museum encouraged Oklahomans to remain civil to those with different opinions and referenced comments made by the Rev. Billy Graham and President Bill Clinton at a prayer service held just days after the attack.

“In the days following the attack,

Rev. Billy Graham issued a challenge to Oklahomans, and to the world,” said Gov. Stitt. “He said, ‘The forces of hate and violence must not be allowed to gain their victory – not just in our society, but in our hearts. Nor must we respond to hate with more hate.’

“Never in our lifetime has it been easier for us to be divided. It feels like everywhere we turn, someone or something is trying to drive a wedge between us.

“Like Rev. Graham challenged us 26 years ago, we must guard our hearts from the forces of hate and violence. Oklahoma, we have come too far to give in now.”

Area bank merger noted First Bank & Trust Co., headquartered in Duncan, Oklahoma, and Stroud National Bank, headquartered in Stroud, Oklahoma, announced their merger agreement and submission of the related regulatory applications. The announcement was made jointly by Robert Petersen, Chairman, President & CEO of First Bank & Trust Co. and Arthur Thompson, President & CEO of Stroud National Bank.

First Bank & Trust Co. plans to acquire all stock of Stroud National Bank, at which time Stroud will be merged into First Bank & Trust Co. According to First Bank & Trust Co., Chairman, President & CEO, Robert Petersen, “We are a customerfocused bank with an outstanding reputation for service excellence and forming deep customer relationships.

We are excited about this opportunity that will complement our strengths and help us grow our presence, expanding our position to Northeastern Oklahoma. We take pride in providing great personal service and supporting our communities. Our plan is to maintain those strong qualities in all the locations we serve. First Bank & Trust Co., currently has offices in Duncan, Ard-

more, Waurika, Healdton, Norman and Edmond, Oklahoma. Stroud National Bank has offices in Stroud, Wellston and Perkins, Oklahoma.

Following regulatory approval and the final merger transaction, Stroud National Bank’s name will change to First Bank & Trust Co. According to Stroud National Bank President & CEO Arthur Thompson, “While the bank’s name will be changing, our customers will continue to be served by the same dedicated employees with a strong commitment to our communities. First Bank & Trust Co. is an outstanding organization with a longstanding tradition of community involvement and excellent customer service. Their success is a result of their commitment to meeting customer needs with affordable, highquality products and services. We are excited about the enhanced product and service offerings that our customers will enjoy with this merger.”

Completion of this merger is expected to occur in the third quarter of 2021, pending receipt of all required regulatory and shareholder approvals. Both First Bank & Trust Co. and Stroud National Bank are equal housing lenders and members of the FDIC.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 22, 2021 • Page 7

Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation scientist Roberto Pezza, Ph.D.

Grant will go toward funding on miscarriages & birth defects The National Institutes of Health has awarded the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation $495,000 to use a new approach to study the genetic origins of miscarriage, infertility and certain birth defects.

OMRF scientist Roberto Pezza, Ph.D., received a two-year grant to study the development of chromosomes, the parts of cells that carry genetic information on everything from eye color to height. Most people inherit a set of 23 chromosomes from each of their parents. When that number is off by even one, birth defects or miscarriage often result.

With new technology, Pezza’s lab will be the first to mark single chromosomes in mice with fluorescence.

Using 3D time-lapse imaging, the researchers will then follow each chromosome and the proteins that make them up through the complete process of cell division.

“Not only will we be able to target

and track a specific protein, but we can also inhibit genes we couldn’t before and test what happens,” said Pezza, who joined OMRF from the NIH in 2009. “We’ve waited a long time for technology to reach a level that allows us to do this.”

The approach will allow the scientists to get a step-by-step look at the movements within cells that can lead to genetic conditions like Down syndrome, Turner syndrome and Klinefelter syndrome when errors occur.

Knowing how, where and when chromosomes pair is key to designing interventions to prevent mistakes in the process in the first place.

“This work will yield understanding about chromosomes that we’ve never had before,” said Pezza. “The widespread potential is nearly limitless.”

The grant, R21 HD103562-01A1, is funded by the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development,

Public urged to make life giving donations Citizens across the state are celebrating the gift of life for Donate Life Month in an effort to raise awareness of organ, eye and tissue donation.

National Donate Life Month is celebrated by the transplant community and hospitals across the state and is organized by LifeShare of Oklahoma.

The month is dedicated to encouraging Oklahomans to register as organ, eye and tissue donors and honor those that have saved lives through the gift of donation.

LifeShare is the organ procurement organization in Oklahoma responsible for the recovery of organs and tissue for transplant purposes.

Every 10 minutes another person is added to the transplant waitlist..

There are more than 110,000 people across the country waiting for an organ transplant to save their life, and 600 of those are fellow Oklahomans.

The Lighthouse at Lake Hefner is lit up in blue and green this weekend honoring Blue and Green Day, an observance in Donate Life Month.

LifeShare observes National Donate Life Month every April to raise awareness for those who have given the gift of life and those who have received or are waiting for a lifesaving transplant. To help illustrate the message of donation, LifeShare is using the symbolism of a lighthouse.

Much as the calm water of a harbor embody a final resting place for a sea wary ship, becoming an organ donor is the final act of kindness in someone’s life, shining and light and giving hope to others waiting on a transplant.

About LifeShare LifeShare is a nonprofit, federally designated organ procurement organization (OPO) dedicated to the recovery of organs and tissue for transplant purposes. We work closely with three transplant centers and 145 healthcare organizations in the state of Oklahoma to facilitate donation.

Additionally, we strive to raise awareness for organ, eye and tissue donation and transplantation through public education.

Page 8 • April 22, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Rendering of the new Christian Clinic for Counseling center at Edmond’s First Baptist Church, 33rd and Bryant.

First Baptist breaks ground on new counseling clinic

By Carla Hinton Oklahoman.com A local psychologist thought he would retire, but the Lord had other plans.

First Baptist Church of Edmond broke ground on its new Christian Clinic for Counseling last Sunday on the church's property at 1300 E 33rd St. The Rev. Paul Blankenship, the church's executive pastor, said the groundbreaking ceremony was on the church's south lawn.

The new counseling clinic is the idea of psychologist Ron Cruse, a church member who decided to join his 37-year-old counseling practice with the church to form a new nonprofit organization that will operate the new counseling clinic.

Cruse said he'd thought to retire, but he's excited about what he believes is a divine call from the Lord to serve his church and community through the clinic.

"It was definitely a God story, not my own," he said.

The psychologist said he was on track to retire three years ago. He said he had offices in Del City, Norman and Oklahoma City at one time, but people retired over the years until he was "the last one standing."

Cruse said he and other counselors with the clinic are working out of rented facilities, but they will move to the new clinic building at the church when it is completed. The clinic offers professional counseling services through fully licensed mental health counselors.

"We're in the early stages and looking forward to growing," he said.

And about that retirement?

"I really don't have any plans to retire now. I'll keep going as long as the Lord gives me breath and physical health and a mind that works," he said.

"All of us need purpose and meaning."

The Rev. Paul Blankenship, the church's executive pastor, said the church's leaders were thrilled with Cruse's idea.

"This is kind of this man's gift — his life's work — to us," the minister said.

Meanwhile, the Rev. Blake Gideon, the church's senior pastor, said he wanted the church to offer Christian counseling when he first arrived to lead the house of worship several years ago. Gideon said they tried a few times to get something started but never could keep anything long term.

So when, Cruse came to him with the idea, he didn't hesitate to give his approval.

Gideon said the clinic fits the church's mission, and it will be open not just to Edmond First Baptist members but also the community of Edmond.

"One of our desires here at First Baptist is to minister to the whole person — spiritually, physically, emotionally," Gideon said.

Blankenship said the construction project is expected to be completed in late summer. He said the clinic's exterior will be more of a brown brick with tan trim rather than the gray color featured in an artist's rendering of the building. The brown brick is more in keeping with the church's exterior, he said.

From left are, Mitchell Suttle, EMHS Coach Luke Orvis and Robert Ray.

Shelby Hudson Football Memorial scholarships awarded Robert Ray and Mitchell Suttle, of Edmond Memorial High School, Class of 2021, received the 16th annual Shelby Hudson Football Memorial Scholarship during a recent awards announcement during a football team meeting. There was no awards banquet this year due to COVID-19.

The $4,000.00 tuition based scholarship that each will receive may be used at the college or post-secondary studies of their choice. Also, it is not a requirement for them to continue to play football in college.

The scholarship was established August 2, 2005 in honor of Davis and Lisa Hudson's son, Shelby, and is awarded annually to two players who display the qualities and characteristics that Shelby

exemplified as a Bulldog football player. These traits include personal motivation and character, heart and desire to excel, drive and determination to accomplish goals, and perseverance in the face of all obstacles.

"We are very pleased to be able to make this scholarship available to these deserving recipients.

Both Robert and Mitchell are competitive, smart, hardworking and will be very successful in life," Davis Hudson said. "We wish them both the best as they enter their next phase of life." Robert plans to attend the University of Oklahoma while Mitchell is still weighing his options.

Shelby Hudson was a 2003 graduate of Edmond Memorial High School. He was participating in his

annual training camp with the Oklahoma National Guard when he drowned in Lake Tenkiller on May 24, 2005 while working on a unit moral activity.

Since inception of this tuition based scholarship, 29 recipients have been awarded $91,000.00 and those recipients have attended 18 different colleges in 8 states.

The Edmond Public Schools Foundation administers the scholarship and tax-deductible donations for the fund may be sent to 1001 West Danforth Road, Edmond, Oklahoma 73003. The EPSF makes the payments directly to the school that the recipients attends. For any questions contact Deanna Boston, Executive Director of the foundation, at 405-340-2819.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 22, 2021 • Page 9

Many have tried to immortalize the great fictional detective of all time -- Sherlock Holmes.

Among one of two at Science Museum Okla.

Sherlock Holmes exhibit In a historic move, Science Museum Oklahoma will unveil not just one, but two, temporary exhibits May 1. The exhibits will run through Sept. 6. The experts behind these nationally touring exhibitions have made themselves available for interviews on a limited basis. The list includes representatives from Exhibit Design Group touring the exhibition, the Arthur Conan Doyle Foundation, Geoffrey Curley (who assisted in designing both exhibitions) and The Worst Case Scenario authors.

Sherlock Holmes – The Exhibition allows visitors of all ages an interactive experience that combines the science, history and culture of the historic underpinnings of author Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s rich and vibrant stories. The exhibit will transport guests into Sherlock Holmes’ London to solve a crime in a world filled with innovation and experimentation – and just receiving its introduction to his ground-breaking methods.

The Worst-Case Scenario: An Ultimate Survival Experience allows guests to put their skills to the test as they learn different ways to handle

challenging situations. It is a full-body physical and minds-on exhibition providing the essential instructions for everything people need to know when encountering the unexpected.

As they tackle unlikely — but POSSIBLE! — real-life scenarios, guests will find countless moments of excitement and laughter along the way.

Two amazing experiences! One low price! Tickets must be purchased in addition to general admission. Tickets are $9.95 for adults; $7.95 for children and seniors. Museum members may purchase tickets for a discounted rate of $7.95 for adults; $5.95 for children and seniors. General admission to Science Museum Oklahoma is $16.95 for adults; $13.95 for children and seniors.

Page 10 • April 22, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Commentary ... We’re on YOUR Side

National press & truth

By Steve Gust Editor Politics is truly crazy these days.

Here is my recommendation. Try not to believe a whole lot the mainstream national press tells you.

I was a bit asSteve Gust tonished when reporters chided the Minneapolis police chief for referring to recent riots as riots.

Apparently riots, when done by those on the left, are not really riots. They’re more like justified unrest.

Then again you have “60 Minutes,” doing yet another story on the Jan. 6 Capitol riot/unrest, which many of them believe to be sedition.

I’m a little baffled by that event.

Simply entering the building was against the law?

Now before you send me an email, I was, and remain, against the

people there who were out of line and broke the law.

Still, I wish “60 Minutes,” and the rest of the press would be as outraged over the dozens and dozens of incidents of unrest and riots committed last year. It’s wrong to destroy property and hurt people. And it doesn’t matter what your politics are. It’s a crime, which should be prosecuted.

Anymore our politics are just one never-ending series of double standards. We have one legal standard for those on the left and another one for those on the right.

And so our nation’s Capitol remains protected by a fence and troops, while our southern border is left wide open by liberal leadership.

I truly hope that some day, we once again get a hold of our senses and bring fairness back to our legal system.

There isn’t much of a priority placed on truth anymore.

(Steve Gust may be reached at news@edmondpaper.com)

Gray wants to be new DA EDITOR “I (Robert Gray) am running to be your next Oklahoma County District Attorney because I want to give back to the community I have called home all my life. I understand that the position of District Attorney is the chief prosecutor in Oklahoma County. I have vast experience in litigation and have tried cases in state and federal court and therefore I believe I am exceptionally qualified for this position. My legal background is wide ranging and not simply focused on criminal law which I believe will better serve the citizens of Oklahoma County,” Gray announced.

“Oklahoma County faces serious challenges as we continue to grow.

There has been a recent

Letter to the Editor increase in gun violence in our community, which is extremely concerning. As Oklahoma County District Attorney, I will focus on the following which I believe are our most pressing issues: 1.) violent crime, 2.) mental health, and 3.) addiction, whether alcohol or drugs. At the same time, we cannot lose sight of the fact that we must serve the victims and their families of all types of crime. I think it is it vital to utilize the diversion courts that have been set up to further assist people that will not be deterred or rehabilitated by simply a jail sentence, but to get to the root cause of the problem. However, I want to make it clear

that violent crime of any kind will not be tolerated,” Gray continued.

“I know that the Oklahoma County District Attorney must be an outstanding attorney as well as have the ability to lead an organization and its employees.

Having assisted clients through some of their most difficult times will assist me in dealing with the unique challenges of the job. I believe that the success of this position requires an emphasis on strengthening and maintaining relationships with the judicial bench, law enforcement, and others in federal, state, county, and municipal governments. Good communication is a must. I also want to emphasize that it requires being fiscally conservative with taxpayer money, because in the end I am here to serve the citizens,” Gray said.

“I can assure everyone that my office will operate with the utmost integrity. As has been handed down to me, always do the right thing,” Gray emphasized.

Robert W. Gray was born in Norman, Oklahoma and his family has deep roots in Central Oklahoma with his ancestors having made the Land Run of 1889. He attended the University of Oklahoma for his bachelor’s degree and Oklahoma City University for his Juris Doctor degree. He started his legal career in the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s office and has maintained a successful private sector law practice for the last twelve years. He lives in Edmond with his wife and children. He is a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. He is seeking the Republican Party nomination for this office.

Lankford opposes funding for Planned Parenthood

By Amanda Martindale Senator James Lankford (R-Edmond) joined Senator Joni Ernst (RIA) to introduce the Protect Funding for Women’s Health Care Act, which would prevent any taxpayer dollars from going to the nation’s single-largest provider of abortions, Planned Parenthood. The bill comes as the Biden Administration issued Lankford a proposed rule to allow Title X funds to go to abortion providers. Earlier this week, Lankford joined more than 100 Members of Congress to urge Secretary of Health and Human Services (HHS) Xavier Becerra and the White House to preserve the current rule that ensures abortion providers are physically and financially separate from Title X grantees.

“Democrats recently made it tragically clear when they did not maintain Hyde protections in their latest ‘COVID’ bill that they want to prioritize funding abortion instead funding actual healthcare. I completely disagree. Americans should never be forced to pay for abortions,” said Lankford. “A well-funded private organization like Planned Parenthood doesn’t need to

siphon off $500 million a year in taxpayer dollars.

Every dollar the government gives to Planned Parenthood is a dollar that could have gone to one of the thousands of other women’s healthcare providers that do not force taxpayers to fund abortion-related activities. I am proud to join Senator Ernst on this legislation to right that wrong.”

“We must always fight to protect the most vulnerable of our society, the unborn. Sadly, President Biden is working to reverse a rule from the previous administration that prevented taxpayer money from going toward abortion providers. Iowans should not be forced to fund organizations like Planned Parenthood, the nation’s single largest provider of abortions, and this legislation will help put an end to this practice and redirect those funds to eligible women's health care providers,” said Ernst.

The Protect Funding for Women’s Health Care Act prohibits taxpayer dollars from going to Planned Parenthood. Instead, the bill redirects those funds to other eligible women's health care providers, like Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) while ensuring there is no reduction in federal funding for women’s health services. There are more than 10,000 federally qualified health centers (FQHC),

We love mail, especially mail from Edmond Life & Leisure readers with complaints, compliments or comments about what they read here. The rules, even for e-mail letters: 1) You must tell us your full name; 2) You must give us your complete address and phone numbers (but we will identify you only by name); and 3) We reserve the right to edit letters for length, clarity and taste (our taste).

Send mail to Letter to the Editor, Edmond Life & Leisure, 107 S. Broadway, Edmond, OK 73034, or fax to 340-3384 or e-mail to news@edmondpaper.com.

compared with about 600 Planned Parenthood locations.

Specifically, the Protect Funding for Women’s Health Care Act: • Prohibits federal funding of Planned Parenthood Federation of America or any of its affiliate organizations; • Forbids Planned Parenthood from being eligible for any federal dollars, including through mandatory expenditures or unobligated funding of individual agencies; • Protects federal funding for health services for women, including diagnostic laboratory and radiology services, well-child care, prenatal and postnatal care, immunizations, cervical and breast cancer screenings and more; and, • Ensures there is no reduction in overall federal funding available to support women’s health.

President Biden’s proposed rule will once again allow abortion clinics, including Planned Parenthood, which did not participate in the program under the Protect Life Rule, to receive Title X Family Planning funding, despite federal law prohibiting abortion being used as a method of family planning in Title X programs.

The proposed rule will set aside the purpose of the program, to provide healthcare services to low-income individuals, as well as the conscience rights of participants who have objections to referring for abortions, just to ensure that Planned Parenthood can get even more federal funding.

Lankford continues to take action against abortion providers like Planned Parenthood from receiving federal funding. He recently reintroduced the bicameral Women’s Public Health and Safety Act, which gives states the authority to exclude abortion providers, like Planned Parenthood, from receiving Medicaid funds.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 22, 2021 • Page 11

Senate passes bill to keep meetings civil Last week the Oklahoma House of Representatives passed Senate Bill 403, a bill that will extend current statutes regarding the disruption of state meetings to cover school boards, county and municipal governments.

SB 403 was authored by Rep. Robert Manger, ROklahoma City, in the House and Sen. Brenda Stanley, R-Midwest City, in the Senate.

“We have rules of decorum that govern how business is handled in the Capitol, and I believe that same decorum should apply to other political subdivisions,” Manger said. “There are plenty of avenues for voices to be expressed on the issues without having to disruptively protest during a meeting.”

The bill will make it unlawful to disrupt or interfere with the business of any political subdivision.

“Because these boards, commissions and other entities are acting on behalf of the citizens they serve, the people have a right to access those meetings,” Stanley said. “This legislation is aimed at ensuring those meetings can be conducted in a civil, orderly way.”

SB 403 passed the House by a vote of 74-15 and previously passed the Oklahoma Senate by a vote of 36-9. It will now be sent to the Governor’s desk for signature.

Nursing program offered If you’ve ever considered being a nurse, you’ll want to hear about this new program. INTEGRIS Health University powered by INTEGRIS Health and Oklahoma Christian University, is the result of an innovative academic partnership designed to increase the available pipeline of nurses.

There has been a nursing shortage in the United States, including Oklahoma, for many years – long before the existence of COVID-19.

One thing the pandemic has certainly shown us, is that nurses are the backbone of the medical profession and we desperately need more of them.

INTEGRIS Health University creates flexibility for candidates by allowing them to work in a hospital setting while receiving their necessary credits. It uses a transformational nursing education model that is moving away from traditional education to a more blended approach with hands-on learning and online instruction.

The Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA) to Registered Nurse (RN) program is open to CNAs and non-CNAs alike, meaning you do not have to be a CNA to participate. In fact, if a candidate is not already a CNA, INTEGRIS Health will pay for that candidate to become one through partnerships with several different vocational schools.

“INTEGRIS Health is eager to partner with academic institutions across the state to begin strategically transforming the future of nursing for Oklahoma,” says Kerri Bayer, the chief nurse executive at INTEGRIS Health. “It is through intentional effort that we will begin establishing pathways into the most noble and trusted profession of nursing in a way that aligns with student needs of today.”

She continues, “We are not only committed to growing the nursing workforce, but to ensuring life-long success for our nurses.”

The program is intended for both recent high school graduates and adults. Each student will perform delegated direct patient care activities to an assigned group of patients, under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.

Interested candidates will need to apply to both INTEGRIS Health and Oklahoma Christian University. Application forms provided in hyperlinks.

PHOTO PROVIDED

A look at the Veterans Memorial marker, which contains scrolls with names of those from Edmond who served in military conflicts, dating back to the Civil War.

Gracelawn Cemetery expansion also includes an update to Veterans Memorial The City of Edmond is now finishing the expansion of the Historic Gracelawn Memorial Cemetery and Mayor Dan O’Neil believes “everyone will appreciate the care and attention staff and our contractors has given to this needed addition at Gracelawn.”

Besides this major expansion to the north of Gracelawn, the City Council has approved a small project to update the Veterans Memorial in the historic part of the cemetery. This memorial was originated in 1981 by the Edmond Kiwanis Club, with the support of the VFW and American Legion. The memorial contains five large granite monuments that recognize our four military services (Army, Navy, Marines and Air Force) with Presidential Quotes on the backside. There is a central granite monument that explains the purpose of the memorial.

There is also a smaller granite marker that covers a time capsule which contains hand written gothic scrolls that have typeds list attached of the Veteran buried at Gracelawn. Starting in 1889, these lists include names of many Civil War Veterans, Spanish American War Veterans, WWI and WWII, Korean and Vietnam War Veterans. Other gothic inscribed scroll lists the contributors, personally signed by the individuals. There is a list of Edmond Pioneers buried at Gracelawn, a list of all Edmond Mayors and Council members (1889 to 1981) including Carl Reherman Edmond’s 41st Mayor and the list of all Edmond Kiwanis Members, which was chartered 1926.

The Edmond Kiwanis Club had been working on this project for some time and one of our member Lt Col. Oren Lee Peters and now 100 years old, a World War II veteran who worked on this project 40 years ago said for us to update the scrolls and names listed in the time capsule.

Last week the contractors finished pouring the cement to expand the Memorial. The 40 year old time capsule was removed so this cement work could be accomplished.

The steel tube time capsule was also unsealed yesterday and the Mayor reports the scrolls contained inside were absolutely perfectly preserved. The scrolls were enclosed in a plain white bag and as you can see above picture – as clean as it was the day it was sealed inside 40 years ago. When the silicon sealed cap was

One of those speerheading the project is Mayor Dan O’Neil.

breached, you could hear the air rushing into the container, the Mayor said. It took a while for us to remove the bolts and break the seal.

The scrolls were taken to the Edmond Historical Society and copies of the scrolls will be made available to our organizations. The biggest and most complicated task is to update the list of veterans buried at Gracelawn.

“I think the American Legion and VFW can be or special help in this effort. Maybe the DAR chapters can assist the Edmond Historical Society in this effort,” Mayor Dan O’Neil said. “The other scrolls will be documented and updated and the time capsule will be resealed and returned in time for the Memorial Day.”

Page 12 • April 22, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Parmesan All set? Just say cheese Artist Mary Battiata

Final ‘Virtual Barn’ concert will feature Mary Battiata Singer-songwriter Mary Battiata will present the final “Virtual Barn” concert of the season at 8 p.m.

Thursday, April 22, as a fundraiser for the Arcadia Round Barn.

Battiata is based in Arlington, Va., where she teaches art and natural history to special needs students.

During her time off from school she tours the country with her music and has appeared regularly at the Blue Door in Oklahoma City. She has performed twice at the Round Barn.

The livestreamed concert can be found on the Arcadia Round Barn Facebook page.

The Round Barn is now open seven days a week, but was still closed due to COVID-19 when the 2021 season of the Virtual Barn series was launched on Jan. 28. Thursday night guests have included Marco Tello, Greg Standridge, Buffalo Rogers, Janice Francis-Smith, Nellie Marie Clay and Miss Brown to You. “We had a wonderful Virtual Barn series this year that was well-supported by fans of the barn and fans of the musicians,” said Joe Baxter,

who coordinates the music at the barn. “Now we are gearing up for a new season of Elm Tree Concerts, which will be three Sundays a month from May 2 to Sept. 26.”

Elm Tree Concert guests will include T.Z. Wright, Rachel Lynch and the Daydrinkers, Cowboy Jones, Gypsy Twang, Terry Ware and the Shambles, Edgar Cruz and a July 4 concert by the Red Dirt Rangers. The concerts are from 1 to 3 p.m. beneath the shade of the giant elm tree on the north side of the barn. Admission is free but donations are accepted. Guests can bring lawn chairs or sit at the picnic tables.

The Round Barn Ramblers, an acoustic string band led by Baxter, performs in the museum of the barn every Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. For a complete schedule of live music, check the Arcadia Round barn website and Facebook page.

The Round Barn is six miles east of Interstate 35 on historic Route 66and is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.

For more information about live music, call Baxter at 405-833-1350.

By Carol Smaglinski Ask any decent cook what they couldn’t live without and they are likely to mention salt and pepper, pasta and cheese, probably Parmesan, the best known Italian cheese in the U.S. Parmesan is as popular as well as our beloved Cheddar or Swiss, which all come from cows.

Numerous cheeses are made from the milk of sheep such as Roquefort; chevre from goats, and feta, made from sheep or goat’s milk and even Mozzarella, which no pizza should be without. Mozzarella is produced in the U.S. from cow’s milk but in Italy, it is only made from the milk of buffalo and is a pale yellow cheese with a golden rind.

Most Parmesan (translated from Italian meaning “shield”) sold in the U.S. is already shredded and some sold in cardboard containers.

But how much do we really know about Parmesan?

It is best to steer clear of Parmesan that is already grated. Once it is grated, the flavor dissipates quickly, and leaves a tasteless product.

First you have to locate the best Parmesan, which can be difficult. To be deemed authentic, the Parmesan is protected by Italian law and must be made in Parma, in the province of Reggio-Emila, in Italy.

Parmesan Reggiano (pronounced Par-mee-JAH-noh reh JAH noh), aged up to two years, is identified by its name stamped or words pin pricked very tightly together around the side of the rind, along with its plant number and the date it was produced.

Note that this is on the cheese itself, not on the cellophane wrapper as seen in some stores in the U.S.

Cheese should be kept in the coldest part of your refrigerator in the vegetable section and after being opened, wrapped in aluminum foil (for up to a month) and never in the freezer, Just before grating, allow the cheese to come to room temperature.

The American version of Parmesan is only aged for 14 months, whereas the Italian version is aged for up to 24 months or more.

The following habit forming crispies have a marvelous simplicity about them, yet are so delicious.

Looking like cheese lace, they can be baked in the oven or in a skillet and they could become one of your favorite delectable edibles.

Frico A triangle of Parmesan Cheese (or Asiago), shredded Olive oil or melted butter Find a non-stick large skillet and set it over medium heat. Spread the olive oil or butter on the bottom.

Measure two tablespoons of grated cheese into the skillet to form a small round.

Press down lightly with a spatula.

Let cook for 3 to 4 minutes and gently flip it over. I suggest a trial run, so you can determine how long it will take to cook.

After flipping, let it cook for just one minute on the other side. Add more rounds to the skillet and cook the edges are golden.

If you prefer baking them in an oven, heat the oven to 350 degrees and line the baking sheet with parchment paper or a Silpat sheet. In tablespoon amounts, space them about two inches apart and let them cook until done. Serve with soup or salads or an appetizer.

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 22, 2021 • Page 13

In Person Performance at UCO

The University of Central Oklahoma School of Music is back on the stage. They presented ‘Cendrillon,’ an operatic take on the classic fairy tale of “Cinderella.’Peformances were last weekend at Mitchell Hall Theatre on Central’s campus. The show was also livestreamed. Pictured is Haleigh Phillips, a Master of Music – vocal performance candidate from Lawton. She performed the title role.

Page 14 • April 22, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Review of ‘Unhinged’

Film worthy of ‘trashy thriller’ label

By George Gust “Unhinged” was one of the first new wide-release movies to return to theaters after the ravages of a year’s long lockdown. The feeling most of the early post-lockdown movies got was-if they are dumping it in 25 percent capacity theaters the studio must not have high hopes for it! With “Unhinged” its not hard to tell why this horror/thriller was offered up to the limited audiences with its straightforward plot and pulp premise.

“Unhinged” follows Rachel (Caren Pistorius) a single mother whose bad day gets even worse when she beeps her horn at a fellow driver (Russell Crowe) during rush-hour traffic. After an exchange of words, she soon realizes that the mysterious man is following her and her young son in his truck. The initial case of road rage quickly escalates into full-blown terror as Rachel discovers the psychopath's sinister plan for revenge.

Movies like “Unhinged” live on die on expectations going in. If you are expecting a thought-provoking challenging film, you will be disappointed, but if you are looking for a trashy thriller featuring and overweight movie star in the twilight of his leading

man career, then you might just find yourself having a good time with this movie. The subset of this thriller genre could be called ‘single mom defends her children’ (see “Enough” and “Kidnap”-apparently movies like this can only have one-word titles?) and in this regard “Unhinged” falls somewhat short of its peers.

Unlike other films in this genre “Unhinged” takes away a lot of the agency from its female protagonist, opting to focus more on the intense and compelling performance of Crowe. The issue with focusing on Crowe’s character, however, is that his villainous turn

is low on charisma and high on intensity resulting in a tone that is relentlessly dower.

Ultimately, Crowe is the headliner and most interesting part of “Unhinged” for better and for worse.

He has a strong presence and is a constant menace in the movie, but the film could have been served with a little more levity in Crowe’s character, as the outlandish script does not hold up to a close and literal reading. “Unhinged” provides 90 minutes of tension of a trashy thriller, but the constant harsh tone may be too intense for those looking for a fun fast-food style of thriller.

“Unhinged” is rated R for strong violent content, and language throughout. Now available to stream with an Amazon Prime subscription.

2.6 out of 5 stars.

To comment on this film review, or any other movie review, please e-mail George at gust.george@gmail.com Check out George’s Gust’s previous reviews on www.edmondlifeandleisure.com

PHOTO PROVIDED

Russell Crowe has road rage to the highest degree in the intense thriller ‘Unhinged’ now available on Amazon Prime.

Answers appearing on Page 19

Benefit show to help Pollard Theatre The Pollard Theatre Company is excited to announce a benefit concert – WELCOME HOME, at the beautiful, outdoor Magnolia Moon, Saturday, May 15th at 6 p.m., to raise funds for the Grand Reopening of the Pollard Theatre. The evening's events will be hosted by Emmy Awardwinning actor Jon Haque and includes performancesormances from Johnny Woods and Oklahoma fanfavorites, Jason Young of Cross Rags & Young.

General admission tickets start at $40 and are available at www.thepollard.org.

“It’s no surprise this last year has been a difficult time for live theatre and the arts,” says Suzanne Hirzel, President of the Board for the Pollard Theatre Company. “Art has the power to heal and connect us as a communityit is our hope this concert will allow us to raise the necessary funds to welcome back our audiences soon, so we can do just that.”

“The Pollard is the heart of entertainment in downtown Guthrie.

After a long year apart, we are excited to reunite and celebrate with friends, food, music and fun,” continues Mrs. Hirzel. “We are so grateful to our host, Gary Good, for allowing us to present this event in the beautiful and safe outdoor setting of the Magnolia Moon.”

Crossword Puzzle STATEPOINT CROSSWORD THEME: Fictional Mothers ACROSS 1. Build a collection 6. Economic measure acronym 9. *Beverly Goldberg's schmoopie 13. Use an ÈpÈe 14. Neither here ____ there 15. Tall ancient monument 16. Daisy-like bloom 17. Much of it about nothing?

18. Commotions 19. *She's 'Bow' to Dre in TV sitcom "Blackish" 21. *Mother to Jo, Meg, Amy and Beth March in novel and movie 23. Before tac 24. Ripped 25. Part of Super Bowl entertainment, pl.

28. Homesteader's measure 30. *"Game of Thrones" Lannister and mother to Joffrey, Myrcella and Tommen 35. Douses 37. Adjutant 39. Article of faith 40. Genuflecting joint 41. *TV mother to Alexis and David, "friend" to Jocelyn Schitt 43. "Will be," as sung by Doris Day 44. Perform in a play 46. Load sixteen tons, e.g.

47. Peacock's pride 48. *Mowgli's adoptive mother 50. Apartment 52. Skeleton in a lock 53. Part of a jousting outfit 55. Spelling competition 57. *Mother to Carlton in "The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" 60. "Well, I'm astandin' on a corner in ___, Arizona," from the Eagles "Take it Easy" 64. Country's LeAnn ____ 65. Hoover's agency acronym 67. Piano practice piece, e.g.

68. Church song

69. What Usain Bolt did 70. Poisonous substance 71. *Wife to Papa, mother to Baby 72. Sum it up 73. Go on a buying spree DOWN 1. Way, way off 2. ____ Verde National Park 3. Naysayer's favorite prefix?

4. What bloodhound is after 5. Croatia's neighbor 6. Nibble away 7. Affirmative action 8. Movie trailer, e.g.

9. Elementary particle 10. *Claire Dunphy and Mitchell Pritchett's mother 11. Soothing lotion ingredient 12. Bell and Barker, e.g.

15. Christopher Kimball's "Milk ____" 20. ____'s razor 22. Part of a circle 24. Tiresome 25. Questioner 26. *"Mamma Mia!" mamma 27. Do this or forever hold your peace 29. '80s band "Quiet ____"

31. Catch one's breath 32. ____ a peak 33. Bone-chilling 34. Europe's "boot" 36. Short for seconds 38. *She played Ricky Schroder's stepmom on "Silver Spoons" 42. Defendant's excuse 45. Religious belief 49. ____ Khan 51. Plural of #39 Across 54. Below, prefix 56. Impede 57. "Everywhere you want to be" credit card 58. Muslim holy man 59. Plural of velum 60. *Ellen, Scarlett's mother in "Gone with the ____" 61. Like the best accommodations 62. War god in Norse mythology 63. Make one's way 64. Dashboard acronym 66. *Kunis, Hahn and Bell as "____ Moms"

Answers Page19

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 22, 2021 • Page 15

Annual Farmer’s Market back for its 17th year The Edmond Farmers Market has opened its 17th season at Festival Market Place. The market is located at 26 West First Street in Downtown Edmond and is open 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. each Saturday through Oct. 29. (No market on Sept. 11 during the Downtown Edmond Arts Festival) It is an exciting year as the market expands to over 50 vendors featuring all Oklahoma grown, raised and manufactured products including the freshest of the fresh produce, meats, eggs, baked goods, pasta, plants, international foods, salsa, BBQ sauce, coffee, craft vendors, and more. You can also enjoy the morning at the new “Sit and Shop” area on the plaza featuring baked goods, coffee and Wondervan Pops.

Masks are optional for those shopping in person, but we ask everyone to practice social distancing or stay home if not feeling well. Online ordering for market pickup is available through the Source WhatsGood app or online at https://edmondfarmersmarket.com/shop.

Vendors for 2021 include: Produce and Plants: Cardinal Farms* Crow’s Farms Don’s Produce Earth Shelter Garden Project Focus Urban Farms* Hayhurst Farms Heskett Farms (Aug – Oct) Indigo Acres Jackson Farms Redeemed Soil Farm Renricks Farm and Gardens Sanctuary Gardens and Wellness Whitmore Farms Yarrowhead Farms Meats: 1070 Farms* Granny Had One Half Pound Farm

Whitmore Farms Baked Goods: Bavarian Pretzels - European Boutique Bou’s Broken Oven Bakery – Gluten, Egg, & Dairy Free Earth Shelter Garden Project – Sourdough Granny Had One I’s Bakery* Mish Mish Bake Shop*– Mediterranean Plant Scratch That! Confections Uptown Bee Patisserie*

FILE PHOTO/MELINDA INFANTE

The Edmond Farmer’s Market is a great place to come to shop for plants.

Crafts: Boutique Bou’s Dust Bowl Tough T-shirt Co The Honey House Shop Onawa Soap Co. Salt Soothers Southwest Silhouettes Tea Ara Soap Co Manufacturers: Ada Candy Company* Crockstar Dinner Club*- Crockpot Meals Dreamcatcher Farm Gourmet Salsa Frenzy Brewing Granny Had One - Eggs, Honey, Frozen Entrees King’s Rib Buster - BBQ Sauce and Apricot Preserves Mean Beans Coffee Co.* Nourished Roots* - Spice Blends Papa J’s BBQ Phaya Naga Foods - Hot Sauce Red Tail Ranch - Eggs Scars and Stripes Coffee Second Wind Farm – Honey Sweet Spirit Foods* Tall Girl Specialty Pasta and Frozen Entrees Trucker Treats* - Flavored Pretzels Wildhorse Canyon Farm Winery Wondervan Pops* *New vendor

FILE PHOTO/MELINDA INFANTE

The good folks from Jackson Farms are back again this year bringing with them tomatoes, okra and other top produce.

FILE PHOTO/MELINDA INFANTE

Last year’s virus restrictions were a bit more strict than this year. But officials still urge a measure of caution when shopping.

Page 16 • April 22, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

The State Capitol is a sample of Kelly’s oill painting.

Arts Association to have outdoor oil painting demo

Kelly Pennington

Program for Edmond Arts Association (EAA) on Monday, April 26, will be Outdoor Oil Painting demo by Kelly Pennington.

The Edmond Arts Association (EAA) is pleased to announce the program for its April meeting will be an outdoor oil painting demo, light and weather permitting by Kelly Pennington, Oklahoma Landscape Painter. Kelly will demo the process of Oil Painting outdoors to all the members and guests of the EAA on Monday, April 26, at 6:45 p.m. at the Edmond Fine Art Institute courtyard, 27 E. Edwards Street in Edmond.

Kelly Pennington was born in Ada, Okla. with an internal drive to create art. She was fortunate to have had teachers in school that encouraged her creativity and observational skills. These teachers were an influence leading Kelly to want to give back what she was so lucky to have received from them.

Kelly dedicated 17 years of her life teaching K-12 arts education in Oklahoma Public Schools. Now, she is working on her personal art as a full-time artist. She works out of an art studio in Ada, OK when she is not painting in the great outdoors.

Her motivation is nature and the energy she feels among the colors while capturing abstract shapes in the

landscape using oil paints. Kelly orchestrates interesting compositions with expressive and colorful painterly brushstrokes honoring mostly nature and Oklahoma landscapes.

“I believe in capturing these beautiful landscapes and preserving them onto a canvas so we can enjoy the view from within our personal space” she says. Studying nature and drawing from life has always been her best teacher. She is committed as an artist, painter and observer of life.

For more information on Kelly and to see some of her work - check out her website at: https://www.kellypenningtonfineart.com/ The EAA meeting is open to the public; with a guest fee of $5. The April 26 meeting will be held outside in the courtyard of Edmond Fine Art Institute. Come early with a lawn chair to experience painting in the outdoors! If weather does not cooperate – we will meet indoors in the regular auditorium.

The EAA meets on the fourth Monday evening of the month except in June, July, August or December.

Artists of all media will enjoy speakers and demos on subjects of interest to all. Membership is open to anyone interested in the arts. For more information please

Edmond Life & Leisure • April 22, 2021 • Page 17

PHOTO PROVIDED

Local homebuilder Two Structures Homes presents a check from the sale of the Broncho House to UCO administrators. Pictured, Jay Evans, founder and owner of Two Structures homes; and, Tricia Evans, owner of Two Structures Homes, present a check to UCO. Pictured, left to right, Steve Black, Ph.D., chairperson and professor of Finance at Central; Jay Evans; Patti Neuhold-Ravikumar, president of the University of Central Oklahoma; Tricia Evans; Jeremy Oller, J.D., Ph.D., dean of the UCO College of Business; and, David Chapman, Ph.D., professor of finance at Central.

Homebuilder will help fund UCO scholarships A partnership between the University of Central Oklahoma’s College of Business and local homebuilder, Two Structures Homes, will fund scholarships for real estate students for years to come.

In 2020, Two Structures Homes constructed a home, dubbed the Broncho House, with proceeds from the sale going toward the endowment of a scholarship for UCO real estate students. The home sold in January 2021, which provided funds of more than $47,000 to the endowment.

The idea behind the Broncho House came from Jay Evans, Central alumnus and founder and owner

of Two Structures Homes, and David Chapman, Ph.D., professor of finance at Central.

“Jay and Tricia Evans, who own Two Structures Homes, have been wonderful supporters of the UCO real estate program,” Chapman said.

“This latest gift is even more special because it was structured to include the students. Jay hired a paid intern from the real estate minor to work on the Broncho House to learn the building process.”

Each week, as the home was constructed, Two Structures posted polls on its Facebook page to seek public opinion on features of the house, in-

Extra beds for Integris Jim Thorpe Rehab

Expansion project pays off for Integris Health Edmond The $95 million expansion project at INTEGRIS Health Edmond was designed for future growth. But the extra space was needed sooner than expected due to the increase in COVID hospitalizations. The additional rooms allowed us to keep up with increasing volumes and provide care to both COVID and non-COVID patients alike. As COVID hospitalizations begin to decline, a longer-term plan has been developed to utilize some of the expanded space.

Beginning in July 2021, INTEGRIS Health Edmond will proudly offer 18 inpatient rehab beds managed by INTEGRIS Jim Thorpe Rehabilitation.

Adding Jim Thorpe inpatient services in Edmond will extend our reach and allows us to care for patients closer to where they live.

INTEGRIS Health Edmond will be able to serve patients across the full continuum of care offering pre-acute, acute, and post-acute services, as well as mental health and addiction services.

The conversion includes the permanent closure of the temporarily closed 18 licensed beds at INTEGRIS Baptist Medical Center Portland Avenue.

These beds will be redeveloped as part of a greater INTEGRIS Baptist campus bed strategy.

Business students excel The University of Central Oklahoma’s College of Business Professional Sales Team recently placed 11th at the National Collegiate Sales Competition (NCSC).

This is Central’s highestranking achievement at the NCSC in the team’s history.

The competition gives students an opportunity to Son Barnes put their skills to the test marketing major from Kazakhstan. in team-based and one-on-one sales Both team members placed individucall simulations. In addition to the ally as well. Barnes placed 11th, and competition, students could particiSon placed 72nd. pate in a career fair with companies “These rankings reflect the quality looking to hire sales graduates.

More than 135 students, represent- of the professional sales program and our students, along with the hard ing 68 universities across the U.S. and Canada, participated in the com- work and dedication of the sales petition; 70 additional students from team,” said Emily Goad, Ph.D., assisthe competing schools also attended. tant professor of marketing.

For more information about CenThe Central professional sales team included Katy Barnes, a senior profes- tral’s professional sales program, contact Goad at 405-974-2805 or sional selling major from Wilson, egoad@uco.edu.

Oklahoma, and Yana Son, a senior

cluding paint colors, fixtures and doors. The public voted on three options with the winning option being used in the design of the house.

Central offers the state’s only minor in real estate. The 18-hour minor introduces students to the principles of real estate and prepares them to sit for Oklahoma’s real estate exam. Courses include real estate principles, real property management and real estate practice.

For more information about the Broncho House or the real estate minor at Central, contact Chapman at 405-974-2835 or jchapman@uco.edu.

Page 18 • April 22, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure

Arledge & Associates Q&A

What’s involved with working for yourself?

By Josh Mullins Arledge & Associates At some point in your career, you may consider making the jump from working for someone else to starting your own business and working for yourMullins self. While this can be a very rewarding decision to make, there are things you should consider and understand before you make your decision.

Q. What is the difference between a business and hobby?

A. Hobbies do not elevate to the level of a business. For tax purposes you should understand that you are required to report the income on your tax return as taxable. You are also allowed to take hobby expenses, but they are limited to the amount of hobby income. You aren’t allowed to offset other income on your return with hobby losses or take a hobby loss on your tax return. Generally, a hobby is for fun, recreation, or sport, not to make a profit. The goal of making a profit is the big difference between a business and a hobby.

Q. Now that you have decided your goal is to make a profit, do I have to make a profit every year to avoid the hobby status?

A. No. However, once you have established your business, the IRS can look at the last three of five years to help identify activities that are being run as a business or not. The IRS has a list of nine things they look at when determining if an activity is a business or hobby. You should become familiar with this list, and how it applies to your business and industry, to understand what the expectations are for your business activity.

Q. What kind of business structure should you have?

A. This is a very complicated area and you need to keep in mind what type of industry you are in, whether or not your business will have assets that appreciate in value, whether or not you intend to have employees, if you will have multiple owners, along with a number of other things. This is a discussion you should have with your attorney and/or CPA. Here are a few options. First, there is the sole proprietorship. This can only be used if you are the only owner. You can report this on your tax return on Schedule C. Next, you can use a partnership type entity. This business structure is for businesses with more than one owner.

A few types of partnerships are a general partnership, a limited partnership, and a limited liability company. Each of these have their own legal requirements, which is why you should discuss these with an attorney. Just keep in mind that if you are an owner of a partnership, you are not considered an employee of the partnership and you are not required and shouldn’t pay yourself wages. Another type of entity is a Corporation. These are generally referred to as C-Corporations or S-Corporations. In both entities you are both a shareholder and, if you work in these activities, you are an employee. In both cases, there is some expectation that as

an employee of the corporation you should receive wages. Corporate entities require more structure than partnership entities.

Q. Once I have decided what my ownership structure will be, both legally and for tax purposes, what comes next?

A. First, if you are a partnership or corporation you need to apply for an employer identification number. If you are a sole proprietorship and you will have employees, you must also have an employer identification number. These can be applied for online at the IRS website. Second, you need to determine what you will use for recordkeeping. This is one area a lot of small business owners fail to realize the IRS considers to be important and is included in the 9 items the IRS will look at to determine if you have a hobby or business. Recordkeeping is an important part of having a successful business. To determine what areas you are having success with and what areas need to improve you need to have good records to both measure your historical success and predict your future success. Also, since you will have to file a tax return to report your business activity you will need your records for that. Further, if you have a partnership or corporation, you may be required to include your balance sheet on your tax return.

Q. What is one other relevant item to keep in mind in today’s business environment?

A. We have learned how to operate in a remote environment for many business activities and the home office deduction has become a very important item for a lot of people. However, keep in mind that if you decide to use a corporate business entity, whether C-Corp or S-Corp, you cannot take a home office deduction like you can for a partnership or sole proprietorship. For both sole proprietorships and partnership types, this is a relatively easy expense to take because you are not an employee of these entities, you are its owner. However, because you are an employee of both corporate type entities, to take a home office deduction your entity must plan for ways to incorporate this type of deduction. This is also something you should discuss with your lawyer/tax preparer when discussing your entity type.

Josh Mullins, CPA, is a partner at Arledge and Associates, PC, an Edmond-based accounting firm. Arledge and Associates, PC is a recognized leader in the accounting industry offering practical solutions in the areas of tax planning, auditing, consulting, accounting advisory services and client accounting. Through its Gateway Executive Solutions division, the firm offers outsourced CFO, controller and cloudbased accounting solutions.

This article contains general information only and does not constitute tax advice or any other professional services. Before making any decisions or taking any action that might affect your income taxes, you should consult a professional tax advisor. This article is not intended for and cannot be used to avoid future penalties that may be imposed by the Internal Revenue Service.

Safety needs to be a priority during the 2021 prom season. Look over these tips from AAA.

AAA reminds public to keep prom season safe this year Area high school students are heading back to prom, one year after the pandemic cancelled the cherished tradition. AAA Oklahoma reminds teens, and their families, to make sure safety is at the top of their prom check lists.

There were 13,088 crashes involving teen drivers on Oklahoma roads in 2019, according to the Oklahoma Highway Safety Office.

Sixty-two people died in these tragedies.

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for teenagers in the United States and there are a multitude of risks associated with prom night festivities, including nighttime driving, additional teen passengers and impaired and intexticated driving.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, teens are more likely than anyone else to be killed in an alcohol-related crash. In 2016, almost one out of five teen drivers involved in fatal crashes had been drinking.

Even though the minimum legal drinking age is 21, data shows 16 percent of 15- to 18-year-old drivers involved in fatal crashes in 2016 had been drinking.

“Prom night this year will be extra special for teens,” says Leslie Gamble, AAA Oklahoma spokeswoman. “However, this is also a night that can end tragically due to risky behavior such as impaired or distracted driving. It is critically important that parents and teens discuss the rules of safe driving, especially if they have not experienced the exhilaration of such exciting events as much due to the pandemic.”

Research conducted by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety has identified several factors that increase the danger to teen drivers and their passengers: • Nearly two-thirds of people injured or killed in a crash involving a teen driver are people other than the teen behind the wheel (i.e. other drivers, passengers, pedestrians, etc.)

• Nighttime driving, especially between the hours of 9 p.m. and midnight can be risky.

• Distraction was a factor in nearly 6 out of 10 moderate-to-severe teen crashes. The most frequent potentially distracting

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Proms

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behaviors were talking or otherwise interacting with passengers and cell phone use.

Recognizing these risk factors can be useful in creating a safe driving plan for teens (both drivers and passengers) planning to attend prom this spring.

AAA offers the following tips: • Develop a safe driving plan: AAA encourages parents to make a safe driving plan with their teen, set a reasonable time to return home and talk with them about potential risks such as driving with a passenger, or driving impaired or distracted.

• Discuss prom plans with other parents. Don't assume all parents share your values and will monitor your teen's actions as you would expect.

Exchange phone numbers and talk with other parents and your teen's friends to ensure ample communication.

• Limit the number of passengers in a vehicle.

Parents should limit the number of teens in the vehicle to the driver and one passenger. The teens may have plans to go “as a group” but they should drive in separate vehicles and enjoy the “group” when they reach their destinations (pictures, dinner, prom and after prom).

• Say no to alcohol and other illicit drugs. Remind your teen that it is against the law for anyone under the age of 21 to consume alcohol.

Encourage teens to be prepared to appropriately handle peer pressure to drink alcohol or use illicit drugs such as marijuana by saying no. Do not serve alcohol or drugs to your teen or any other

teen in your home.

• Don’t drive intexticated. Remind teen passengers not to create distractions for the driver.

No cell phone use while driving. Keep your eyes on the road and limit passenger interaction.

• Remember defensive driving skills. Teens will be on the road on a weekend night with adult drivers who may be driving impaired (from alcohol or drugs). They need to be attentive and watch for other drivers who may not be driving safely.

• Be prepared for a roadside emergency. Make sure your AAA membership is up to date and your teen driver is added in case there is car trou-

ble. Teen drivers should also program 1-800AAA-HELP in their phones.

AAA provides automotive, travel, and insurance services to 61 million members nationwide and nearly 425,000 members in Oklahoma. AAA advocates for the safety and mobility of its members and has been committed to outstanding road service for more than 100 years. AAA is a non-stock, non-profit corporation working on behalf of motorists, who can now map a route, find local gas prices, discover discounts, book a hotel, and track their roadside assistance service with the

In light of COVID 19 for the time being, some worship services may be suspended or online.

Please check with your house of worship for more information.

Page 20 • April 22, 2021 • Edmond Life & Leisure